HC Deb 23 May 1916 vol 82 cc1976-7
38. Mr. CATHCART WASON

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware of the feeling of injustice among persons owning low-paced cars used for the purposes of their business that they should be charged the same rate for their cars as persons using high-priced cars purchased for pleasure; and if he will consider if it is possible to make some differentiation?

Mr. McKENNA

As I have already explained, I am considering all questions relevant to the Motor Car Duty, and I hope to make a statement on the Committee stage of the Finance Bill.

Mr. WASON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that these cars have gone up very largely in price?

Sir TUDOR WALTERS

When the right hon. Gentleman is considering this question, may I ask him not to assume that all low-priced cars are being used for business and the high-priced cars all for pleasure, which is certainly not in accordance with the facts?

Mr. McKENNA

That is an assumption which I should never make.

Mr. J. O'CONNOR

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider this tax upon cars from 16 to 26 horse-power, which are very largely used in Ireland for business purposes?

Mr. McKENNA

That is one of the points I have in mind.

Sir J. JARDINE

Will he consider the cases where the tax has been raised from £6 to £18?

Mr. McKENNA

That is the same question as that raised by my hon. Friend.

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